VCU to offer state’s first doctoral program in mechanical and nuclear engineering

Virginia Commonwealth University announced Wednesday that it has received state approval to offer a doctoral degree in mechanical and nuclear engineering, the first such program in Virginia to prepare graduates for both engineering disciplines.

The program, approved by The State Council of Higher Education, will be offered in the spring of 2013. It is the only doctoral program in Virginia incorporating nuclear engineering.

“In keeping with our strategic plan, the new VCU School of Engineering doctoral program in mechanical and nuclear engineering is additional evidence of VCU’s commitment to attracting highly motivated and well-prepared students with an interest in leading in the STEM-Health care fields,” said VCU President Michael Rao in a statement.

In response to a growing national interest in nuclear energy, the VCU School of Engineering added a master’s degree in mechanical and nuclear engineering in 2007.